The Muslim Lawyers Association (PPMM) contends that the azan issue is a local issue that should not be politicised or manipulated by any party.

NONE "This issue is a local resident issue which involves religious sensitivities. It should not be politicised or blown out of proportion by the media for whatever reason," said its president Zainul Rijal Abu Bakar ( far left ) in a statement.

The proper solution, PPPM believe, is only through closed negotiations between both sides taking into consideration the legalities and religious sensitivity.

The NGO also offered its services as intermediary to solve the conundrum, but maintained that all parties concerned must be sincere in the negotiations.

"Both sides must come to the table with clear intent to solve the issue in the best possible way. Thus the azan issue will not be politicised and shall be resolved tactfully," he added.

The organisation believes that the controversy about the azan issue stems from misunderstandings between the parties involved, something that a discussion over the matter would have avoided, instead of the media circus that it has become.

"Maybe the non-Muslim lawyer's request is from his lack of understanding about Islam or Muslims themselves may find fault with his request because they think that it is insulting to Islam," continued the lawyer.

While PPPM believe that both sides are within their rights to express themselves, they must do so within the bounds of the law and societal harmony.

The NGO also reminded non-Muslims that Islam is the religion of the federation in everyday life and not only for official events.

It also chided Muslims not to defend the call of azan itself without understanding it and should strive to answer the call to prayer by going to the mosque to pray together.